Edenvale-based steel supplier SteelTech Trading has been selected as one of two beneficiaries of a significant enterprise and supplier development (ESD) program launched by construction equipment manufacturer Astec Industries. This initiative underscores Astec's commitment to empowering South African businesses while addressing the country's high unemployment rate.
SteelTech Trading specializes in structural steel, sheet steel, plates, pipes, and tubes, serving the construction and manufacturing industries. Through its Africa Middle East (AME) division, Astec is partnering with SteelTech to help grow its business, expand its customer base, and upskill the company to position it as a future Astec supplier.
Founded in October 2023 by entrepreneurs Khahliso Mokhothu and Teboho Busa, both from Katlehong on Johannesburg's East Rand, SteelTech was identified by Astec AME as a high-potential startup. Astec AME supply chain head Bhekani Cele explains: "We were looking for a 100%-black-owned steel business to work with and identified SteelTech, which shares our values of quality, innovation, and customer service. With the support of a global brand like Astec, we are confident the business will achieve significant growth."
Astec's investment in SteelTech includes implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, complete with training, and a subscription with computer technology provider Sage. Astec's quality team is also working closely with SteelTech to assess and improve its processes. Further support includes furnishing the SteelTech office space and boardroom to enhance customer engagement. SteelTech will soon have the opportunity to quote on Astec projects.
Expanding Opportunities with Delflow
The second beneficiary of Astec's ESD program is Boksburg-based Delflow, a 51%-black-owned hydraulic equipment supplier and long-standing Astec partner. The collaboration includes an apprenticeship program aimed at addressing South Africa's youth unemployment and skills deficit.
As part of the partnership, Astec is working with Delflow to help it achieve accreditation with the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA). This will position Delflow as a recognized tertiary skills provider. The initiative involves assessing and upgrading training facilities, developing training policies, and creating relevant content in collaboration with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and subject matter experts.
Accreditation with MerSETA will allow Delflow to play a key role in developing South Africa's future workforce while growing its business,"says Cele.
This dual-purpose initiative not only strengthens Delflow's capabilities but also opens avenues for skills development and employment, addressing one of South Africa's most pressing challenges.
Astec's ESD program reflects its broader goal of empowering local businesses, fostering economic growth, and supporting sustainable development.
SteelTech Trading specializes in structural steel, sheet steel, plates, pipes, and tubes, serving the construction and manufacturing industries. Through its Africa Middle East (AME) division, Astec is partnering with SteelTech to help grow its business, expand its customer base, and upskill the company to position it as a future Astec supplier.
Founded in October 2023 by entrepreneurs Khahliso Mokhothu and Teboho Busa, both from Katlehong on Johannesburg's East Rand, SteelTech was identified by Astec AME as a high-potential startup. Astec AME supply chain head Bhekani Cele explains: "We were looking for a 100%-black-owned steel business to work with and identified SteelTech, which shares our values of quality, innovation, and customer service. With the support of a global brand like Astec, we are confident the business will achieve significant growth."
Astec's investment in SteelTech includes implementing a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, complete with training, and a subscription with computer technology provider Sage. Astec's quality team is also working closely with SteelTech to assess and improve its processes. Further support includes furnishing the SteelTech office space and boardroom to enhance customer engagement. SteelTech will soon have the opportunity to quote on Astec projects.
Expanding Opportunities with Delflow
The second beneficiary of Astec's ESD program is Boksburg-based Delflow, a 51%-black-owned hydraulic equipment supplier and long-standing Astec partner. The collaboration includes an apprenticeship program aimed at addressing South Africa's youth unemployment and skills deficit.
As part of the partnership, Astec is working with Delflow to help it achieve accreditation with the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA). This will position Delflow as a recognized tertiary skills provider. The initiative involves assessing and upgrading training facilities, developing training policies, and creating relevant content in collaboration with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations and subject matter experts.
Accreditation with MerSETA will allow Delflow to play a key role in developing South Africa's future workforce while growing its business,"says Cele.
This dual-purpose initiative not only strengthens Delflow's capabilities but also opens avenues for skills development and employment, addressing one of South Africa's most pressing challenges.
Astec's ESD program reflects its broader goal of empowering local businesses, fostering economic growth, and supporting sustainable development.
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